Abstract
The paper focuses on Device-to-device (D2D) Architectures evaluation frameworks. D2D communication and discovery can improve spectrum usage efficiency and optimize the tradeoffs between throughput and energy consumption. The target operation modes involve both indirect communication between two nodes via a base station or the direct communication among proximal nodes, enabling use cases that can support communications out of cellular coverage, as well as low end-end delay requirements. The paper will present the architectural evolution of D2D networks within 3GPP standardization and will highlight key network functionalities and signaling protocols. It will also identify key analytical and simulation models that can be used to assess the performance and energy efficiency of resource allocation strategies, and it will present a suitable cross-layer integrated framework.